USO Supporter,

The mindset of a Marine is to always be ready to answer the call and fight for our country when it needs us most. But you never realize how hard deployments can be until you're thousands of miles away from home and the people you love. It really makes an impact.

I’ll never forget one day when we were getting ready to deploy — two ladies from the USO were there handing out coffee, donuts and care packs. I remember thinking, if these ladies could be here doing this for us, I could handle a 12-month deployment. It was so heartwarming to see them there, just as bright and as positive as could be.

Within that pack was a little folded flag. Throughout my deployment, I kept it in my left breast pocket — closest to my heart.

I always made sure I had this with me because it reminded me of what we fought for in the Marines: our country and the freedom it provides.

That flag was with me the whole time in Afghanistan — even when we hit the IED that wounded me, where I earned the Purple Heart.

It would mean a lot to me and the Marines serving today if you would add your name to the USMC birthday card to honor and celebrate its 250 years of bravery and service.

Like the women who sent us off with a smile on the day of our deployment, you never know how much your support will mean to someone serving right now.

They may carry it with them forever — just like I do.

Thank you for supporting our troops,

Barry Morris

USMC Veteran
Public Relations Manager, USO